Music Is My Therapy

August 12, 2012

Slash w/Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators

Shut the front door! Slash is coming to Dubuque, Iowa?

This was my first reaction when I heard the announcement on the radio while driving to work. I called the venue to confirm. It was true. Tickets were purchased, work schedules were adjusted, and then came the shirt. I had to find a Slash shirt. Moondog Music (local record store) had the perfect one.

A little history: Let’s go back to the late 80s, early 90s for a minute. At least once a month I would go to a concert with a good friend of mine. Most of them were in Cedar Rapids at the Four Seasons Center. So, I decided that since I will turn 40 this month (doesn’t hurt to say anymore) I thought it would be cool to relive life as if I was 19/20ish. Happy Birthday to me, right?

I’m most pleased to report that I have four shows to attend this year (crowd clapping). I’m blessed to have the flexibility with my work schedule. Perhaps it’s the advantage of being related to my boss.

Enjoy the photos that I took at the show I attended this past Tuesday evening in Dubuque, Iowa. I’ve said this to everyone that I’ve spoken to about the show. If you ever get the chance to see Slash w/Myles Kennedy and The ConspiratorsGO! I look forward to the day in which I can see them live again.

While waiting for the show to start I took a look around the crowd to observe the people. It’s interesting to see the age gaps at these type of events. And how many people can get completely shit faced before the show even starts. I don’t drink (anymore) so I was ready to savor every minute. It was located at the local casino so you had to be 21+ to attend. There was a nice mix of people half my age and twice my age.

Fact: I am a graphic tshirt geek. The past couple of months I’ve purchased somewhere around 14 new shirts. Mostly 80s themed and band shirts. When I saw that the guys in the band were wearing a Garbage shirt, Iggy Pop, and Texas Chainsaw Massacre, my face lite up. Total geek I am.

They all have an extensive career in music. When there not together playing they have their solo projects. If your genre of music is Rock & Roll, then keep reading.

Some facts about the band:

The show’s set list started with songs from their most recent album they recorded together, titled Apocalyptic Love.

Please note that the photos on this blog are protected under my copyright.

Thank You for understanding.

It’s not nice to sin.

*****

I like to experiment with different effects. Gives the photo a whole different meaning. I used my point shoot and prayed that I could get a few good shots. I was happy with the turnout.

The guys also sang some original Guns N’ Roses songs. Slash’s guitar solos had the crowd in a state of awe. The solos worked their way into the intro of Paradise City, Sweet Child O’Mine, and Welcome To The Jungle. I heard a lot of people comment on the fact that Myles sang them better than Axl. If I were at a Gun N’ Roses concert I would of been just as happy as I was here. I’m 100% for the music. I tend to stay away from the political stuff. Everyone has an opinion and that’s okay.

Yes, Slash took his shirt off! No further comment…

Todd Kerns taking control of the microphone.

Confetti canyons! Along with some “eye candy”~

This is one of my favorite shots from the show. The crowd was full with energy.

Excellent show!

I looked scared in this photo. Really I wasn’t. Todd was very nice. And look, another graphic tee. {geek}

Photo with Brent.

Myles didn’t allow any photos at the meet & greet, understandable. So, instead I had him sign the Slash shirt I was wearing. All while holding my new Conspirators shirt. Caught up in the moment I guess. The line for Slash was so long and security was trying to put an end to it. I got more out of just watching him give autographs and hand shakes. It was still a surreal moment for me. Seriously, Slash is here in Dubuque, Iowa?

The benefits of living in a small town. You get to meet some really cool and talented people.

Look what I found on my car after the show. I thought it was a grasshopper, but my friend told me it was a praying mantis. I’ve never seen one before.

P.S. In regards to the therapy mention in the title. Music cures all the stress and chaos that the day holds. Agree?